The cosmetic composition described herein contains no preservatives, surfactants or the like, which are capable of imparting adverse effects on the skin. Instead, the composition contains chitosan in an undissolved state that can quickly be dissolved by the user just before use. This ingredient is suitable for skin-lifting effects.

Specifically, the composition comprises 0.5-6.0% w/w chitosan, dissolved with a dissolution velocity in the range of 1-15 min, in a solvent having a degree of deacetylation between 80-100% and a pH from 3.5-7.5. The chitosan is physically separated from the solvent and contained in an undissolved state.